Is Fellaini fit?

United's victory over Stoke on Tuesday night evoked memories of last season's 3-0 hammering of Tottenham when, out of the blue, Van Gaal's side got out of second gear and steamrollered their opponents.

A week later, Van Gaal named an unchanged side against Liverpool and United produced their most commanding Anfield performance since the late 90s. The United manager might be tempted to resist change at Chelsea, however Marouane Fellaini suffered an injury in midweek and that could herald Morgan Schneiderlin's return after his demotion against Stoke.

Fellaini applauds the United fans against Stoke

Other injury updates

Reports in Germany last week claimed Bastian Schweinsteiger could be out for longer than expected with his knee injury. Van Gaal, understandably, did not address the German's fitness as he basked in the glory of United's finest home success of the campaign.

Schweinsteiger has struggled to replicate his Bayern Munich form at United but his leadership was particularly missed as mutiny rained down against Southampton last month.

Marcos Rojo returned from a dislocated shoulder within a month last season but has been sidelined with the same injury for over two months this term, while Phil Jones has not played in over a month.

Schweinsteiger suffered his knee injury at Sheffield United

More Mourinho questions?

Contrary to reports, United have not agreed a deal with Jose Mourinho for him to become the club's new manager, but as long as he remains available the Portuguese's name will continue to be linked with United.

Ed Woodward has stood firmly behind Van Gaal and that was not about to change after two encouraging victories. Pep Guardiola's City deal has intensified the pressure on United, though, and Mourinho must be champing at the bit to succeed Van Gaal so he can duel with his former nemesis.

Mourinho: Still desperate to manage United

Elaborate on Guardiola?

Van Gaal was keener to talk about United's victory rather than a man he might not even manage against, but he might be more certain of competing with Guardiola next season after recent results.

Guardiola played under Van Gaal for three years at Barcelona and is another managerial product to succeed from the former Netherlands coach's stable. Elaborating on Guardiola is also a chance for Van Gaal to brag, something he usually revels in, whether it is winning the derby or beating Derby.

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Praise for Borthwick-Jackson?

United's academy is in disarray and the club is yet to finalise its restructuring almost a year on from confirming Brian McClair's departure, however Van Gaal has restored faith in homegrown products.

Ten British players from the academy have featured in matchday squads under Van Gaal and Cameron Borthwick-Jackson has arguably looked the most accomplished. A new contract is inevitable and, following his productive performance against Stoke, Van Gaal could eulogise the Flixton teenager.